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OOAK 1930 s Parisian Haute Couture Brown Bronze Metallic Knit Embroidered Dress
Located in Thiensville, WI
Incredibly unusual circa 1930s brown/bronze & silver metallic knit dress. Contains a partial label marked "209 Rue Saint-Honore- Paris". Dress is embellished with ivory, brown and go...
Category

1930s Shift Cocktail Dresses

Paul-Louis Orrier Haute Couture Black Red Leg-o-Mutton Gown - XS, 1980s
By Paul-Louis Orrier
Located in Tucson, AZ
Like his contemporaries Thierry Mugler, Claude Montana and Azzedine Alaïa, Paul-Louis Orrier pushed trends to their furthest interpretation by using exaggerated shapes and angles in ...
Category

1980s French Ball Gowns

A chiffon ball gown by Jean Dessès Haute Couture Paris France Circa 1956
By Jean Dessès
Located in Toulon, FR
Dessès, of Greek origin (1904-1970) owned one of the most important couture houses of the period in Paris
Category

1950s French Ball Gowns

F/W 1994 Atelier Versace Haute Couture White Black Cropped Fringe Bolero Coat
By Gianni Versace, Atelier Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting an incredible creme fringe Atelier Versace cropped coat. From the Fall/Winter 1994 collection, this voluminous coat is constructed of creme wool fringe with black spots sc...
Category

1990s Italian Bolero Jackets

S/S 1996 Atelier Versace Haute Couture Copper Lace Leopard Rhinestone Mini Dress
By Gianni Versace, Atelier Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting an incredible leopard print chiffon and copper lace Atelier Versace mini dress, designed by Gianni Versace. From the Spring/Summer 1996 collection, a version of this super...
Category

1990s Italian Mini Dresses

1954 Christian Dior Haute Couture Lily of the Valley Satin Evening Dress Suit
By Christian Dior
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Two piece suit consisting of a jacket and mid length skirt of butter black satin trimmed with a velvet and jet fringe. The fitted jacket is constructed on princess lines with raglan ...
Category

1950s Dress and Coat Ensembles

Night blue silk velvet and silk satin skirt-suit Givenchy Haute-Couture Numbered
By Givenchy
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Night blue silk velvet and silk satin skirt-suit. Silk lining. Lace on the edge of the neckline.Buttons are covered with silk . One snap on the button-tab inside.Pockets. 10 buttons ...
Category

Late 20th Century French Skirt Suits

1980 s LORIS AZZARO black and pink Haute Couture mini dress with lace ruffles
By Loris Azzaro
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Dramatic jet-black and light pink mini dress with layered lace and ribbon ruffles designed by Loris Azzaro dating to the 1980's. During this time, Azzaro was experimenting with volu...
Category

1980s French Cocktail Dresses

S/S 1992 Atelier Versace Haute Couture Runway Leopard Silk Gold Lace Coat Dress
By Atelier Versace, Gianni Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Crafted entirely by expert artisans by hand, this Spring/Summer 1992 Atelier Versace leopard coat dress debuted on the season's runway, modeled by Yasmeen Ghauri. This double-breast...
Category

1990s Italian Coats and Outerwear

Grey, ivory and blue skirt-suit in tweed Chanel Haute-Couture Circa 1970 s
By Chanel
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Grey, ivory and blue skirt-suit in tweed. Fabric composition: wool. Silk lining ( original inside the jacket and more recent inside the skirt) Metal and tweed button. Half-belt. Vert...
Category

1970s French Skirt Suits

Givenchy Couture by Alexander Mcqueen rare black suit skirt
By Givenchy, Alexander McQueen for Givenchy Haute Couture
Located in PARIS, FR
Rare Givenchy Haute Couture by Alexander McQueen black suit skirt size 42 FR, a true gem! Rarity
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1990s French Skirt Suits

Givenchy Couture S/S 1998 by Alexander McQueen grey coat
By Alexander McQueen for Givenchy Haute Couture
Located in PARIS, FR
Rare Givenchy Haute Couture Spring Summer 1998 by Alexander McQueen, size 38 FR, a tiny stain on
Category

1990s French Coats

Givenchy by Alexander McQueen Couture Corset, Fall 1999
By Alexander McQueen for Givenchy Haute Couture
Located in Kobe, JP
A museum-level archive piece from Givenchy Haute Couture by Alexander McQueen, circa 1999. This
Category

1990s French Waist Belts

A Ted Lapidus by Olivier Lapidus Couture Dress, French Circa 1990
By Ted Lapidus Haute Couture
Located in Toulon, FR
. White label and golden graphics LAPIDUS HAUTE COUTURE PARIS. Size 36. Very good condition. Dimensions
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1980s French Casual Dresses

Yves Saint Laurent Haute Tunic and Silk Pants Couture Set
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Yves Saint Laurent - (Made in France) Haute Couture set consisting of a tunic and silk pants. No
Category

1980s French Twin Sets

Paul Daunay gold lamé jacquard couture evening ensemble, c. 1960
By Paul Daunay
Located in London, GB
were hand made to a Haute Couture standard in Geneva, Switzerland and have been exhibited alongside
Category

1960s French Suits, Outfits and Ensembles

Ungaro Haute Embroidered with Flowers, Beads and Rhinestones Couture Set
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Ungaro -Haute Couture set consisting of a skirt, jacket and belt fully embroidered with flowers
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21st Century and Contemporary French Twin Sets

1960s Chanel Couture Beige Woven Wool Coat
By Chanel
Located in Toronto, Ontario
An incredible Chanel Haute Couture coat from the 1960s. This piece is made from lightweight beige
Category

1960s French Jackets

An Yves Saint Laurent Couture Evening Set Numbered 65123, Circa 1989
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1989. France Haute Couture Proper Collection of Mrs Catherine Deneuve. Luxury evening set
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1980s French Cocktail Dresses

1940S Black, White Red Silk Organza Sheer Buffalo Check Gown Couture From Par
Located in New York, NY
Haute Couture Quality from Paris no label, many holes & tears but NOT dry rot. Sold as is 1940S
Category

1940s Formal Gowns

A Cristobal Balenciaga Couture, Tailored jacket in sky blue silk Circa 1960
By Balenciaga
Located in Toulon, FR
Haute Couture, numbered 102494 and dating from the early 1960s. This jacket has a story behind it. It
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1960s French Dinner Jackets

Vintage Odicini Couture Black Velvet Rayon Beaded Large Size Long Sleeve Dress
By ANDREA ODICINI COUTURE, Odicini Couture
Located in San Diego, CA
flattering, and extremely well made, with haute couture qualities. In great condition Made in Italy
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Cocktail Dresses

Kamal Haut Couture Multi colour Silk Party Dress
Located in London, GB
A fun vintage frock by Kamal Haute Couture in Munich , Germany. Made of multicolour silk in fold
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1980s German Cocktail Dresses

Guy Laroch Couture Dress - 70s
Located in Milano, IT
back—an iconic piece of haute couture sophistication. Material: 53% Viscose 47% Acetate
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1970s Maxi Dresses

Couture Quality Maharaja-Style White Silk Satin Turban w Rhinestone Brooch
By Suzanne Couture Millinery
Located in Gresham, OR
collector who loved French Haute Couture clothing and hats, particularly dramatic turbans and styles made of
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Hats

Couture ThierryMugler 1990s CorsetStyle SilkLined Denim WideShoulder Power Dress
By Thierry Mugler Couture
Located in Chicago, IL
In the 1990s, French Thierry Mugler (1948-2022) designed this haute-couture labeled and numbered
Category

1990s French Cocktail Dresses

Paul Daunay Couture green floral silk cocktail dress, circa 1952-57
By Paul Daunay
Located in London, GB
meticulous craftsmanship of the era's haute couture designs. This evening dress serves as a testament to the
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1950s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Custom Made Suzanne Couture Millinery Cardinal Red Lace Eyelet Turban w Feathers
By Suzanne Couture Millinery
Located in Gresham, OR
Haute Couture clothing and hats, particularly dramatic turbans and styles made of the highest quality
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21st Century and Contemporary American Hats

Couture Quality Carnation Pink Turban w 3-D Petal Applique Feather Flower
By Suzanne Couture Millinery
Located in Gresham, OR
collection which belonged to an exacting collector who loved French Haute Couture clothing and hats
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Hats

1980S PER SPOOK COUTURE Teal Metallic Silk Lurex Chiffon Military Styled Blouse
Located in New York, NY
Haute Couture label and the finishing is exceptional. Made in Paris and fully lined in Navy blue
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1980s Blouses and Tops

An Evening Lanvin Couture Embroidered Velvet Top Skirt Circa 1985
By Jeanne Lanvin
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1985 France A Haute Couture set by the House of Lanvin consisting of a cardinal purple silk
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1980s French Evening Dresses

Couture Quality Mint Silk Organza Turban w Matching Ostrich Plume and Red Rose
By Suzanne Couture Millinery
Located in Gresham, OR
exacting collector who loved French Haute Couture clothing and hats, particularly dramatic turbans and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Hats

Lanvin Couture Ivory Wool Jacket with Soutache, 1980s
By Lanvin Paris
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Haute couture from Lanvin circa 1980s - numbered. Ivory wool with corduroy trim and soutache trim
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20th Century Jackets

Rocco Barocco Couture F/W 1997 Semitransparent Floral Silver Silk Long Dress
By Rocco Barocco
Located in Milano, IT
Silk Long Dress - Haute Couture - Floral Silver Applications - Longsleeves - High neckline - Button
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1990s Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns

A Pierre Cardin Black Couture Jersey Evening Dress Circa 1976/1978
By Pierre Cardin Couture, Pierre Cardin
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1976/1978 France Evening dress by Pierre Cardin Haute Couture in black silk jersey dating
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1970s French Evening Dresses

Custom-Made Couture Purple Gray Tufted Draped Toque Turban w Hat Pin
By Suzanne Couture Millinery
Located in Gresham, OR
collector who loved French Haute Couture clothing and hats, particularly dramatic turbans and styles made of
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Hats

Yiquing Yin "Princess of Pleats" Poiret Designer Hi Low Couture Dress Gown
By Yiquing Yin
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Yiqing Yin is a highly regarded Chinese-born, Paris-based Haute Couture designer and an official
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Evening Dresses

2011 Burberry Prorsum Damask and stud bubble dress
By Burberry Prorsum
Located in Capri, IT
2011 Burberry Prorsum haute couture balloon dress honeycomb studs on the top balloon damask
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns

A Pierre Balmain Couture Turquoise Silk Chiffon Cocktail Gown- France Circa 1958
By Pierre Balmain
Located in Toulon, FR
, two white tulle petticoats and a tarlatan petticoat covered with cream faille. Exemplary haute couture
Category

1950s French Cocktail Dresses

S/S 1997 Gianni Versace Couture Beaded Rhinestone Black Mid-Length Gown
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
collection. The season's haute couture runway heavily influenced this rare piece, which did not appear on the
Category

1990s Italian Evening Gowns

An Yves Saint Laurent Couture Fashion show Dress in Printed Taffeta - 1972
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Toulon, FR
Spring Summer 1972. France  Beautiful Chemise dress by Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture from the
Category

1970s French Day Dresses

Balmain Couture Dress in Silk Crepe and Transparent Black Lace, circa 1990s
By Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Balmain - Haute Couture dress in silk crepe and transparent black lace. No size indicated, it fits
Category

1990s French Evening Dresses

Coco Chanel Early Poured Glass Sea Serpent Belt
By Chanel
Located in Riverdale, NY
Coco Chanel Early Poured Glass Haute Couture Belt. Designed as a series of swag chains with emerald
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1960s French Baroque Revival Belts

Coco Chanel Early Poured Glass Sea Serpent Belt
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Coco Chanel Early Poured Glass Haute Couture Belt. Designed as a series of swag chains with emerald
Category

1960s French Belts

1950s Navy Silk Couture Bar Jacket with Button Pocket
Located in London, GB
This early 1950s navy shot silk jacket is unlabelled haute couture circa 1950-51. Of complex
Category

1950s French Jackets

A French Couture beaded Evening Coat in the style of Paul Poiret, Circa 1930
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1930/1935 France Haute Couture Heavy and long Anonymous Haute Couture coat in micro beads
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1930s French Opera Coats

Couture Badal Black Silk Fringe Coat
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Haute Couture and Ready to wear collections. We offer more exclusive items, view our frontstore
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21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Blazers

Atelier Versace Couture F/W 1998 Runway Embellished Sheer Cutout Gown Maxi Dress
By Atelier Versace
Located in Naples, FL
F/W 1998 Haute Couture Runway. Atelier Versace sleeveless maxi dress featuring bead and rhinestone
Category

1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

A French Printed Chiffon Couture Dress Circa 1930/1940
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1930/1940 France An Anonymous Haute Couture shawl and dress in silk crepe printed voile with
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1930s French Evening Dresses

Jean Paul Gaultier Transformable Peplum Jacket
By Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in New York, NY
, nipped waist, all a nod to the Haute Couture fitted jackets of the New Look with an unusual transformable
Category

1990s French Blazers

2000S ZAC POSEN Electric Blue Silk Duchess Satin Strapless Cocktail Dress
By Zac Posen
Located in New York, NY
Beautifully made with a classic Dior Haute Couture style internal corselette. 2000S ZAC POSEN
Category

Early 2000s Cocktail Dresses

A French Couture Silk Chanel Skirt and Jacket Suit number 60423 60422 C. 1980
By Chanel
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1980 France Rare Chanel Haute Couture Skirt and Jacket Suit for summer dating from the early
Category

1980s French Skirt Suits

Rare Maison Gripoix Poured Glass Evening Bag
By Maison Gripoix
Located in New York, NY
Rare Gripoix Glass Haute Couture purse from the 1980's. A Chanel design, but made in custom
Category

1980s French Evening Bags and Minaudières

A Loris Azzaro Couture Embroidered Sequins Evening Dress Circa 1970/1980
By Loris Azzaro, Loris Azzaro Couture
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1970/1980 France Paris Loris Azzaro Haute Couture evening dress embroidered with black
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1970s French Aesthetic Day Dresses

Vintage Chanel Haut Couture Skirt Suit 1974
By Chanel
Located in London, GB
A charming and chic vintage (1974) haute couture skirt suit by Chanel. The suit is made of a
Category

1970s French Skirt Suits

Christian Lacroix for Jean Patou Draped Lace Silk Gown, Circa 1980
By Jean Patou
Located in Paris, FR
Created by Christian Lacroix during his tenure at Jean Patou in the early 1980s, this haute couture
Category

1980s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

1990S Red White Beaded Net Gown
Located in New York, NY
This gown retains no label, however the amount of hand-finishing points to Haute Couture or custom
Category

1990s Formal Gowns

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Haute Couture For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the vintage or contemporary piece of haute couture you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Black is a pretty popular color, but we also have Brown, Gray, Beige and more in stock now. Making the right choice when shopping for an item from our selection of haute couture may mean looking at versions that date from different eras — you can find early iterations from the 19th Century and a newer version made as recently as the 21st Century, both of which have proven very popular over the years. Making an accessory such as this has likely been a part of the legacy of many fashion designers, but those produced by Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior and Chanel are consistently popular. There aren’t many items for men if you’re seeking these accessories, as most of the options available are for women and unisex.

How Much is a Haute Couture?

The price for a piece of haute couture starts at $166 and tops out at $60,169, and on average, selling for $2,497.

Finding the Right Clothing for You

Start building your collection of covetable and iconic vintage clothing today — no matter where you roam, there is a curated selection of designer dresses and gowns, sweaters, shirts, dazzling shoes and more on 1stDibs that will keep you covered in the hottest styles from head to toe.

From elegant museum-worthy vintage Chanel dresses and jackets to audacious T-shirts and trousers from provocative punk designer Vivienne Westwood, one thing is abundantly clear: If the clothing for sale on 1stDibs could talk, it would certainly make a statement. 

For fashion lovers, the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers — think John Galliano and Roberto Cavalli — but maybe ‘80s accessories are among your (guilty?) pleasures. 

Playful, boldly colored coats and outerwear from Moschino, Ralph Lauren and other titans of the era can take a simpler ensemble to the next level, while chic and practical suits from the likes of Christian Dior and Balmain endure for haute couture advocates and beyond. 

And vintage is the name of the game on today’s red carpets, too. Celebrity stylists are turning to archival pieces created by the likes of Bob Mackie, Thierry Mugler and Jean-Paul Gaultier as alternatives to new gowns plucked straight off the runway. Wearing such sought-after items gives celebrities instant allure and suggests a personal style that’s not only achingly glamorous but intellectually informed and influenced by a love of craftsmanship. 

Those seeking contemporary luxury looks and in-demand street-style fits can indulge in designs by Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu and Loro Piana, while pieces from Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Versace endure as examples of fashion’s most covetable goods. 

The future — and glamorous past — of fashion is yours for the wearing. Find vintage clothing and accessories for sale on 1stDibs, including designs by Balenciaga, Valentino, Celine, Loewe and more.

Questions About Haute Couture
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To identify haute couture, start by locating the brand label on your item. Once you know who produced it, you can check the official list of haute couture fashion houses published on the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode website to see if the maker is on the list. By law, only maisons that meet certain standards established by the Paris Chamber of Commerce can be considered haute couture. Find a wide variety of apparel, bags and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    Why it's called couture is owed to the origin of the word. In French, couture means "dressmaking" or "sewing." The term fits couture fashion because it refers to pieces that are designed and tailored to order. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of apparel from some of the world's top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    In fashion, “haute couture” means "high sewing" or "high dressmaking." Haute couture is French and refers to the creation of one-of-a-kind pieces by an esteemed fashion designer or house for a particular client. 

    Haute couture garments such as dresses are pieces of clothing constructed by hand from start to finish and are made with the highest quality materials. They are expertly created by firms that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Dior, Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli are some of fashion's universally revered haute couture houses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024
    Haute couture is the name of custom-designed clothing that select fashion houses produce. To qualify as haute couture, a maker must receive certification from the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris. Each year, this chamber of commerce publishes a list of the current haute couture maisons. Shop a selection of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    The difference between couture and haute couture comes down to the regulations and laws of France. A couture fashion label is any label that produces made-to-order pieces for clients. To be accurately identified as haute couture, a couture maison must secure certification from the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris. Each year, this organization publishes a list of current haute couture fashion houses. Explore a large selection of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Haute couture is described as high-end luxury wear that has been custom-fitted and constructed by hand from start to finish and is governed by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France. ​​You can shop a variety of top fashion houses' haute couture designs from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 20, 2024
    Yes, Dior is haute couture.

    The French luxury fashion house Christian Dior is an official member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that determines which maisons can operate with haute couture status.

    When Christian Dior launched his haute couture house, in 1946, he wanted nothing less than to make “an elegant woman more beautiful and a beautiful woman more elegant.” He succeeded, and in doing so the visionary designer altered the landscape of 20th century fashion. Vintage Dior bags, shoes, evening dresses, shirts and other garments and accessories are known today for their feminine and sophisticated sensibility.

    On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of vintage Dior apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
    Yes, Balmain is haute couture. The term haute couture refers to high-end luxury wear that has been custom-fitted and constructed by hand from start to finish. The world of haute couture is governed by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France.

    Fashion designer Pierre Balmain established his now-iconic label in 1945. In the postwar years, Balmain became known for bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim.

    From the dresses favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    Whether Mugler is haute couture may vary from year to year. This is due to the fact that the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode updates its list of haute couture fashion houses annually. Generally, the French luxury fashion house founded by Thierry Mugler has regularly appeared on the list of official haute couture fashion houses. Explore a variety of Mugler apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    A haute couture dress is dress is a dress that was made by an esteemed haute couture designer. Dresses created by haute couture houses are constructed by hand from start to finish. They’re made of the finest materials and are individually tailored to meet the needs of a specific client.

    Haute couture garments are expertly created by firms that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Dior, Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli are examples of universally revered haute couture houses.

    Find haute couture dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    Yes, Versace is haute couture. The Italian fashion house is an official member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that determines which firms can operate with haute couture status.

    More than any designer before him, Gianni Versace mined celebrity, music and Pop art for inspiration. In fact, the New York Times noted in 1997 that the fashion industry "is now driven by contemporary culture because Mr. Versace made it that way."

    On 1stDibs, find vintage Versace clothing and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 7, 2024
    Yes, Louis Vuitton is haute couture. The iconic French luxury brand is a member of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body of haute couture as an art form.

    Founded in 1868 as the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture and renamed FHCM in 2017, the organization has around 100 members — and Sidney Toledano, the CEO of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), sits on its executive committee. "Haute couture" is a legal term that, literally translated, means "high sewing" and refers to innovative, hand-crafted garments created for private clients and presented to the public every January and July.

    Find vintage Louis Vuitton Neverfull bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
    Worth, the father of haute couture, is Charles Frederick Worth. In 1858, he established the House of Worth in Paris and began creating custom-made dresses for celebrities like Sarah Bernhardt and Jenny Lind and elites of fashion. By the 1870s, he was widely known throughout Europe, and many now consider him the first truly successful fashion designer. Explore a wide variety of apparel on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between luxury and haute couture relates to exclusivity. Luxury is a general term for items made from fine materials and with meticulous crafting techniques that maximize quality, allowing them to be sold for high prices. Makers that produce these items are luxury brands. To be called haute couture, a brand must meet the strict requirements of the Paris Chamber of Commerce. Each year, its commission, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, publishes a list of haute couture fashion houses. Explore a collection of luxury apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
    To tell if something is haute couture, first look for a size tag. Haute couture is custom-made for the purchaser, eliminating the need for a size tag. Every inch of a haute couture item will be flawless as well. Imperfections like misaligned or uneven stitches, poor-quality fabrics or cheaply made zippers and buttons are a sign that a piece isn't haute couture. You can also consult the list of haute couture fashion houses published by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode every year. The list is accessible on the organization's website. Explore a wide variety of apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024
    The difference between ready-to-wear and haute couture comes down to availability and pricing as well as whether or not the brand in question can assert haute couture status (this denomination is protected by law). Haute couture garments are crafted by maisons that are official member organizations of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), which is the governing body in France that regulates this segment of the fashion industry. Haute couture items are custom-made and individually tailored to fit the wearer. As a result, they sell for very high prices. Fashion houses produce ready-to-wear apparel on a much larger scale in a range of predetermined sizes and sell it at lower price points. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    The difference between high fashion and haute couture comes down to official recognition. For its pieces to be legally called haute couture, a fashion house must meet the standards set forth by the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris, which publishes a list of haute couture labels every year. High fashion is a general term for pieces designed and tailored to order that sell at aspirational price points. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
    The difference between prêt-à-porter and haute couture is availability and average price points. Also called ready-to-wear, prêt-à-porter is the term for apparel available for purchase in stores in various sizes. Haute couture pieces are custom-made to fit the wearer's body size and type, as well as their tastes. As a result, haute couture fashion tends to cost significantly more and its pieces are one-of-a-kind. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of apparel and accessories.

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Barbra Streisand Channeled Klimt’s ‘Woman in Gold’ in This Shimmering Dress

Costumer to the stars Ray Aghayan brought the famed painting to life with his spectacular design.

A Chanel Obsessive’s Cache Extends Well beyond Her Walk-In Closet

From handbags and heels to jackets and jewels, Sharon Coplan Hurowitz has a deep admiration for (and collection of) all things Chanel.

Behind the 1970s and ’80s Glam of ‘Halston’ with the Hit Show’s Costume Designer

Jeriana San Juan explains how she undertook the intimidating project of designing costumes for the new Netflix series about the New York fashion legend. (Hint: She found vintage Halston on 1stDibs!)

A Short History of Capri Pants, on the 100th Birthday of Their Inventor

Once considered a controversial item of clothing, fashion designer Sonja de Lennart's creation is now a bona fide classic.

How the Chanel Jacket Forever Changed What Women Wear

The classic tweed garment has been a wardrobe staple of chic women around the world since the 1950s.

A Pair of Shoes — Heels or Flats — Can Tell an Impactful Story

Amanda Benchley and Bridget Moynahan teamed up to explore the relationship between powerful women and their most significant footwear.

You Saw It at the Met Ball. Here’s What Camp Fashion Is Really About

This year's Costume Institute exhibition is all about embracing the eccentric.

The V&A Takes a Fresh Look at the New Look’s Pioneering Progenitor, Christian Dior

Ballrooms, Bar Suits and British royals — in a sweeping exhibition, the London museum looks back on 70 years of the French fashion house, as well as its illustrious founder and his fondness for the United Kingdom.